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Thursday 30 November 2017

How to Germinate Tree Seeds

Seed germination is a necessary part of growing trees, but it can often be a long and tricky process. Tree seeds can be germinated naturally, or they can be “forced” by assisted germination. Assisted germination is helpful if you want to speed up the overall germination process. Many tree seeds have similar germination processes, but it is best to research the exact requirements for the species of tree you plan to grow.

EditSteps

EditGerminating Seeds Naturally

  1. Add stones and natural compost to a plant pot. Begin the planting process during autumn. Get a medium-sized plant pot that has drainage holes at the bottom. Layer the bottom of the pot with small stones. Only put enough stones so that you can’t see the bottom of the pot. Then, fill the pot with natural compost. Fill it up almost all the way, but leave about a of space at the top of the pot.[1]
    Germinate Tree Seeds Step 1 Version 2.jpg
    • Natural compost is made out of decomposing organic materials, such as leaves, hay, and raw vegetables.
    • You can use store-bought compost if you do not have homemade compost.
  2. Plant the seeds. Once the pot has been filled with compost, dig out a small hole in the center of the pot. It should be about deep. Insert 2 or 3 seeds into the hole. Then, replace the compost and pat it down. After that, water the compost until it appears wet.[2]
    Germinate Tree Seeds Step 2 Version 2.jpg
  3. Put the pot in a shady spot. You can put the pot outside in a shady corner, or you can put it near a window that doesn’t get much light. Wherever you put it, the spot should not receive constant sunlight. Keeping the seeds at a temperature between and .[3]
    Germinate Tree Seeds Step 3 Version 2.jpg
  4. Protect the seeds with wire mesh if your pot is outside. This will prevent birds and animals from eating the seeds. First figure out the circumference of the top of the pot. Use wire cutters to cut the wire mesh a little larger than the measurement you took. Then, put the wire mesh on top of the pot and fold the wire mesh over the edges. Make sure that it is secure and can’t be easily removed.[4]
    Germinate Tree Seeds Step 4 Version 3.jpg
  5. Keep the soil damp. Check the soil daily to see if it is dry. If it is, add water to the soil. The soil should be damp but not wet.[5]
    Germinate Tree Seeds Step 5 Version 3.jpg
  6. Check the seeds for growth. Natural germination will take longer than assisted germination. Your seeds will likely take 2 seasons to complete the germination process. If you planted the seeds in early autumn, check their progress in early spring. They have completed germinating if you see a small sprout growing out of each seeds.[6]
    Germinate Tree Seeds Step 6 Version 3.jpg

EditUsing Assisted Germination

  1. Use hot water to stimulate a “fake” summer. To speed along the process of germination, you can trick the seeds into “thinking” they’ve gone through the typical dormancy and germination period. A seed may take 2 seasons to germinate naturally, but this process will speed up germination to 90 days. To begin, gather your materials to replicate the summer season. You will need:[7]
    Germinate Tree Seeds Step 7 Version 3.jpg
    • A container that can hold hot water and all of your seeds
    • Your seeds
    • Warm or hot (not boiling) water
  2. Place the collected seeds in your container. Then, pour the hot water over them. Make sure the seeds have been completely covered with water. At this stage, it doesn't matter whether they sink or float.[8]
    Germinate Tree Seeds Step 8 Version 3.jpg
  3. Wait 24 to 48 hours to dispose of any floating seeds. Floating seeds typically mean that they are empty and will not produce a seedling. You may replace the water after 24 hours with more warm water, and wait another day if you want to give them another chance to float.[9]
    Germinate Tree Seeds Step 9 Version 3.jpg
  4. Use your refrigerator to replicate a “fake” winter. After you’ve replicated the summer season, it is time to replicate cold weather. Prepare the following materials before you proceed:[10]
    Germinate Tree Seeds Step 10 Version 3.jpg
    • A plastic sandwich bag
    • Paper towel
    • Tap water
    • Refrigerator
  5. Place your seeds on the paper towel. Fold the paper towel and moisten it with water so it is wet, but not dripping. Then, insert the paper towel into the plastic sandwich bag. Make sure that the seeds don’t fall out.[11]
    Germinate Tree Seeds Step 11 Version 3.jpg
  6. Place the plastic sandwich bag in your refrigerator. This process is called cold stratification. Put the sandwich bag in a place where it won’t be bothered. Typically, the bottom drawer is a good spot for the sandwich bag.[12]
    Germinate Tree Seeds Step 12 Version 3.jpg
    • It’s a good idea to label the bag with something like “tree seeds” to avoid disturbance.
    • Don’t put the seeds into the bottom drawer if it is on a humidity control setting.
  7. Check for rotten seeds each month. To check, open the bag without letting the seeds fall out. Look at the seeds. They should be larger, but should not appear spongy. If they appear engorged and spongy, take them out of the bag. Throw them out if they feel spongy.[13]
    Germinate Tree Seeds Step 13 Version 3.jpg
  8. Take your seeds out of the refrigerator after three months. If you’ve left the seeds in the refrigerator, the cold stratification will be completed after 90 days. Remove them from the refrigerator to begin the final stage of the assisted germination process.[14]
    Germinate Tree Seeds Step 14 Version 3.jpg
  9. Put the seeds in another bag. Put the seeds in a paper towel and fold it. Then, put the paper towel in a plastic bag. Place the plastic bag in a warm location. is an ideal temperature for the seeds. Once the seeds begin to sprout, it is time to pot or plant them.[15]
    Germinate Tree Seeds Step 15 Version 3.jpg
    • The time it will take them to sprout depends on the type of seeds you have. Check the progress of the seeds once a week.

EditPlanting the Seedlings

  1. Make sure the seeds have germinated before planting. The seeds should have produced sprouts before repotting them or planting them. And to sprout, the seeds need to go through the process of germination. You can use natural or assisted germination to complete the process.
    Germinate Tree Seeds Step 16 Version 3.jpg
  2. Repot or plant the seedlings in the spring. Seedlings should begin to appear around springtime. If they have grown significantly, you can repot them or plant them outside. Keep in mind that seedlings are often targeted by weeds and animals, so it is typically better to protect them inside for about a year.[16]
    Germinate Tree Seeds Step 17 Version 3.jpg
    • Use a potting soil that release nutrients slowly.
  3. Nurse the seedlings indoors until they are tall. If you choose to protect the seedlings until they grow larger, keep the seedlings inside in a sunny area. Keep the seedling inside for about a year, until they reach tall. Keep the soil damp during this time.[17]
    Germinate Tree Seeds Step 18.jpg
    • You may need to water the soil daily if it does not stay damp.
  4. Expose the seedlings gradually to the outside. Because the seedlings have mostly or only grown indoors, slowly begin to expose them to the outside after a year. The best time to begin exposure is during early spring. Ideally, put the pot in a place with dappled sunlight. Start by putting the seedlings outside for 2 hours during the day. Then, increase the daily outside time by an hour each day. After a few days, permanently move the seedlings outside.[18]
    Germinate Tree Seeds Step 19.jpg
  5. Plant the seedlings. If the tree won’t grow very large, it’s okay to keep it in a pot. For most trees, it will be necessary to plant them in the ground. Find a clear location with plenty of sunlight. Dig a hole that is at least an inch deep, depending on the size of the seedlings. Plant the seedlings and cover the hole back up with soil. Plant the seedlings at least apart if you are planting multiple trees.[19]
    Germinate Tree Seeds Step 20.jpg
    • Rake the area so that it is clear before planting the seedlings.
  6. Watch the progress of your trees. Trees take years to grow, and they will continue to grow in some way or another throughout their lifespans. Watch your tree carefully while it is a sapling. Keep it watered, and protect it from animals if necessary.[20]
    Germinate Tree Seeds Step 21.jpg
    • You can put a mesh fence around the tree to protect it.

EditTips

  • To protect a sapling from pests, put a bamboo cane into the ground next to the tree. Take an empty liter bottle of soda, and cut the neck and base off of it. Place the bottle onto the bamboo and over the sapling.[21]
  • If you are germinating a seed that is a berry or from a fruit, you should (if possible) remove the fruit or dry it out as it will later cause your tree to rot.

EditWarnings

  • If you are using the natural method, your tree will likely not grow as well if you don’t plant the seeds in the fall.
  • Watch for weeds and pests while the tree is still very small.

EditThings You'll Need

  • Tree seed
  • Plant pot
  • Small stones
  • Compost
  • Wire mesh
  • Paper Towel
  • Container big enough for your seeds
  • Refrigerator

EditRelated wikiHows

EditSources and Citations


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16 Things You Need To Know About Xolo Doggies If You Loved "Coco"

The Xoloitzcuintli will be your best friend in life and death.

Dante, the dog from Coco, belongs to a breed called "Xoloitzcuintli", or just "Xolo" for short.

Dante, the dog from Coco, belongs to a breed called "Xoloitzcuintli", or just "Xolo" for short.

Xoloitzcuintli is derived from the Nahuatl language: Xolotl is the Aztec god of life and death, and the term "itzcuintli" means "dog".

Pixar

The breed's existence goes back more than 3000 years.

The breed's existence goes back more than 3000 years.

They're extremely ancient lil' doggies. This one has clearly seen a lot.

@izzy .stardust / Via instagram.com

And the breed originated in Mexico.

Which is why it's become an icon of Mexican culture and a national symbol.

instagram.com

According to Aztec mythology, Xoloitzcuintlis were companions to the dead during their journey to Mictlan, the underworld.

According to Aztec mythology, Xoloitzcuintlis were companions to the dead during their journey to Mictlan, the underworld.

Dogs were sacrificed and buried next to the bodies of the deceased, so that they could set out on their spiritual journey together.

mexicolore.co.uk

The most noticeable physical feature of these dogs is the absence of fur.

The most noticeable physical feature of these dogs is the absence of fur.

It's a hereditary genetic malformation of the skin, and it's very powerful, meaning that, if a Xolo crossbred with a heavily haired breed, the puppies will probably have little to no hair.

Animalinfo / Getty Images

However, the American Kennel Club has accepted the version of the Xolo that has a little fur.

However, the American Kennel Club has accepted the version of the Xolo that has a little fur.

Because every living being deserves recognition.

@ailaxolo / Via instagram.com

They're really, really warm.

They're really, really warm.

Due to their lack of fur, they feel warmer to the touch than other dogs. Because of that, a lot of people use them as therapy dogs, and historically, they were treated like heating pads for sick or hurt people.

@fanimayahuel / Via instagram.com

They come in different sizes...

They come in different sizes...

There are toy Xolos, miniature Xolos, and standard Xolos.

Alkir / Getty Images

And it also comes in several colors. There are black, gray, and even reddish Xolos.

And it also comes in several colors. There are black, gray, and even reddish Xolos.

But they're all equally beautiful.

Alkir / Getty Images

It's common for them to be missing some teeth, especially the premolar ones.

It's common for them to be missing some teeth, especially the premolar ones.

In fact, generally speaking, the less hair a Xolo has, the fewer teeth it's likely to have as well.

Alkir / Getty Images

They were super trendy pets in Mexico in the '30s and '40s.

It was a time in Mexico where pre-Hispanic art was going through a big revival, and when there was a lot of nationalist sentiment.

instagram.com

At that time, many Mexican artists kept Xolos, like Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera.

At that time, many Mexican artists kept Xolos, like Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera.

They served as inspiration for several photographers, painters, and authors of the time, and the breed's likeness was often captured in art at that time.

Hulton Archive / Getty Images

However, their popularity has sadly decreased over time.

However, their popularity has sadly decreased over time.

Although... maybe the success of Coco will change that.

Omar Torres / AFP / Getty Images

The Xoloitzcuintli is not the only hairless dog; there's also the Chinese Crested dog.

The Xoloitzcuintli is not the only hairless dog; there's also the Chinese Crested dog.

The Chinese Crested's origins are less clear. There's also the Peruvian Hairless dog, which is a very important breed in Incan culture.

@chinesecrested.insta / Via instagram.com

They're very loyal and mellow, but also said to be very alert in case a stranger finds their way into your home.

They're very loyal and mellow, but also said to be very alert in case a stranger finds their way into your home.

The humans they live with are very important to them, and they do everything they can to care for their people. They live to be between 13 and 18 years old, they respond well to training, and they're basically adorable.

@theveganhotspot / Via instagram.com

And just keep in mind that all doggos, regardless of where they're from or how they look, are good boys and girls, and they all deserve affection, respect, and love.

And just keep in mind that all doggos, regardless of where they're from or how they look, are good boys and girls, and they all deserve affection, respect, and love.

But also be responsible! If you want to adopt one of these little cuties, make sure you're ready for that kind of responsibility, and don't do it just because it's trendy.

@gizmothexolo / Via instagram.com

BFFs!

BFFs!

Like, literally forever.

Pixar

This post was translated from Spanish.



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How to Razor Cut Short Hair

Razor cutting is a versatile technique. You can use it to cut your hair shorter, add texture, or soften the ends. If done incorrectly, however, you could damage your hair. Fortunately, razor cutting is easy, and once you get the technique down, it can be really effective.[1]

EditSteps

EditTrimming, Shaping, and Texturing Short Hair

  1. Start with short hair that is a few inches/centimeters long. This method is great if you already have short hair but want to trim it shorter. It will also help add texture to your hair while reducing volume. It would be easiest if your hair is the same length all around. If your hair is very long, cut it so that it is a few inches/centimeters long.[2]
    Razor Cut Short Hair Step 1.jpg
    • This method assumes that you are cutting someone else's hair, but you use it to cut your own hair. You may have to adjust the hand positions so be more comfortable.
  2. Make sure that your hair is dry, unless it is curly. If your is curly, wavy, or natural (i.e.: African textured), you should dampen it with water first. Cutting curly hair while it is dry can cause frizz and split ends. Dampening it with water will help prevent this from happening.[3]
    Razor Cut Short Hair Step 2.jpg
  3. Pinch a strand of hair from the top of the head between your fingers. Make a V shape with your index and middle fingers. Pinch a thin of hair between them, with your palm facing outward. Pull the hair up and away from the top of the head until you reach the ends. Hold it at a 90-degree angle to the top of the head.[4]
    Razor Cut Short Hair Step 3.jpg
    • The thin strand of hair should be a little narrower than the length of your index finger.
    • Keep this first section perpendicular to the front hairline, where the center part would be.
  4. Cut into the hair with a straight-back razor. Position the razor right below your fingers. Make short, upward cuts towards your fingers. As you cut, the hair will fall away from your fingers.[5]
    Razor Cut Short Hair Step 4.jpg
    • Use a straight-back-razor with guard teeth for this. It is different from a razor comb in that the teeth are made from metal and are much shorter.
  5. Continue to work in horizontal rows towards the back of the crown. Keep pinching and cutting strands of hair all along the front hairline, spanning from temple-to-temple. Once you finish cutting the hair along the hairline, create another row just behind the first one. Continue working your way towards the back of the crown, right where the head starts to curve downward.
    Razor Cut Short Hair Step 5.jpg
  6. Angle your fingers to cut the hair shorter in the back. Pinch a strand of hair on the back-center of the head between your index and middle fingers. Angle your fingers so that the hair on the top edge of the strand touches the base of your fingers, and the hair on the bottom edge sticks out between your fingertips. Trim away the hair under your fingers with the razor.[6]
    Razor Cut Short Hair Step 6.jpg
    • The angle depends on how short you want the back and sides to be. Try to match the angle to the curve of the client's head, however.
    • Keep your palm facing outward, and the top of your hand facing the client's head.
    • Work your way in vertical rows down the back of the client's head, from top to bottom.
  7. Angle your fingers to cut and blend the hair on the sides. Pinch strands of hair between your index and middle fingers like before. Angle your fingers so that the hair on the top of the strand matches up with the hair on the top of the head. Work your way along the side of the head towards the back of the head.[7]
    Razor Cut Short Hair Step 7.jpg
    • Always trim the hair beneath your fingers.
    • Make sure that the hair on the sides tapers towards the hair on the back. Trim away any excess length, if needed.
  8. Trim and texture the bangs, if desired. Comb the hair forward with a soft, bristle brush. Pinch and twist thin sections of hair, then run your razor comb lightly along the strands. This will shorten them while giving them a soft, feathered texture.[8]
    Razor Cut Short Hair Step 8.jpg
  9. Add texture by lightly running your razor comb over the hair. Use a regular comb to brush the client's hair in the direction they will normally wear it. Use your straight-back razor comb to lightly brush the hair down. Be careful not to dig too deep into the hair, or you will cut too much off.[9]
    Razor Cut Short Hair Step 9.jpg
    • Start with the top of the head, then work your way down the sides and back.
  10. Contour the hair along the ears, nape, and sideburns, if needed. If the client's hair is cut short enough that you can see the entire ear, you will need to contour it. Use your fingertips to pinch and pull away thin strands of hair, then lightly trim them with a razor. Work your way along the hairline until the hair is even.[10]
    Razor Cut Short Hair Step 10.jpg
    • When you reach the ears, fold them down so that you can see the hairline behind them.
  11. Brush and style the hair. Use a soft brush to dust off any short strands of hair along the client's neck and shoulders.
    Razor Cut Short Hair Step 11.jpg

EditTrimming and Shaping Pixies and Undercuts

  1. Start a pixie or an undercut. This method is also suitable for other hairstyles that have a similar length and style (longer on top and shorter on the sides). It is ideal for trimming your haircut while maintaining the shape and style. It can save you a costly visit to the stylist.
    Razor Cut Short Hair Step 12.jpg
  2. Dampen your hair if it is curly. While razor cutting should be typically done on dry hair, just the opposite is true for curly, wavy, and natural (African) textured hair. Cutting this type of hair while it is dry and damage it. Dampening it with water first will help prevent split ends and frizz.[11]
    Razor Cut Short Hair Step 13.jpg
    • If your hair is straight, you should leave it dry.
  3. Get a razor comb that has both long and short teeth. Most razor combs will only have one set of teeth. You need to get a razor comb that has long teeth on one edge, and short teeth on the other. This will give you better control of how much hair you cut off. The comb can have straight teeth or curved/concave teeth.[12]
    Razor Cut Short Hair Step 14.jpg
    • If the comb has curved and concave teeth, the curved side will cut less hair while the concave side will cut more hair.[13]
  4. Section off the hair on top of your head. This is only necessary if you are trimming an undercut or a pixie that is shorter on the sides/back and longer on top. Use the handle of a rat-tail comb to separate the long (top) hair from the short (side and back) hair. Comb the short hair down and secure the long hair on the top of your head with hair clips.[14]
    Razor Cut Short Hair Step 15.jpg
    • For most people, this top section spans the width of the forehead.
  5. Run the comb down the sides and back using short, downward strokes. Run the comb through your hair, just like you would when brushing it. Give it a gentle, downward flick at the end of each stroke. Use the long/curved edge if you need to trim off less hair, and the short/concave if you need to trim off more hair.
    Razor Cut Short Hair Step 16.jpg
    • Which edge you use depends on how long your hair is to begin with, and how short you want it to be at the end. You will most likely have to alternate between the two edges.
  6. Trim the hair around your ears with small scissors. Pixies and undercuts are neatly trimmed around the ears. Because of how small this area is, the best way to get the cleanest line is to trim the hair by hand with small hairdressing scissors. Use small snips to cut away any long strands and to clean up the lines.[15]
    Razor Cut Short Hair Step 17.jpg
    • Depending on your haircut, you may also have to do this along the hairline, temples, and nape.
    • Comb the hair downward using a fine-toothed comb first so that it is nice and straight.
  7. Remove the clips and trim the long hair on top of your head, if needed. The great thing about pixies and undercuts is that there is no set or specific length for the hair on the top of your head; it just needs to be longer than the hair on the sides and back of your hair. You can leave this hair long if it suits your style, or you can also trim it down further.[16]
    Razor Cut Short Hair Step 18.jpg
    • Click here for more detailed information on trimming the hair on the top of your head.
  8. Comb and style your hair. If you need to, take a shower and change into a set of fresh clothes. This will ensure that you have no annoying little bits of cut hair pricking your skin.
    Razor Cut Short Hair Step 19.jpg


EditTips

  • Drape a hairdressing cape or a towel around your shoulders while cutting your hair. This will keep those tiny bits of hair from sticking to your clothes.
  • Cut your hair longer than you think you want it. Remember, you can always cut it shorter, but you’ll have to wait for it to grow back longer!
  • If you are cutting your own hair, consider getting a three-way mirror. This way, you won’t have to turn your back to the mirror and hold another mirror up in front of your face.
  • Use a fresh blade each time your razor cut your hair. If you don't use a fresh blade, it won't be sharp enough. This can lead to split ends.[17]
  • Curly hair is difficult to razor cut. To reduce frizz and split ends, make sure that you cut with the curl, not against it.
  • Cutting curly hair may still lead to frizz, even if you cut with the curl. You can get it under control with styling and smoothing creams, however.


EditWarnings

  • Razor cutting may damage curly hair, especially if it is delicate, like African, ethnic, or natural hair.
  • Do not razor cut curly hair (including African, natural, and ethnic) while it is dry, or you will get split ends.[18]

EditThings You'll Need

EditTrimming, Shaping, and Texturing Short Hair

  • Straight-back razor
  • Fine-toothed comb
  • Soft, bristle brush
  • Spray bottle (for dampening curly hair)

EditTrimming and Shaping Pixies and Undercuts

  • Razor comb with short and long teeth
  • Hair clips
  • Fine-toothed comb
  • Spray bottle (for dampening curly hair)


EditSources and Citations


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